Naming brgy. execs in drug list draws mixed views

The plan to disclose the names of barangay officials who are allegedly involved in illegal drugs got mixed reactions from some opposition councilors in Cebu City.

In an interview, Councilor Raymond Garcia said he is in favor of the move but law enforcers should make sure cases against the barangay officials concerned are filed immediately after.

“Since they want to disclose the names, they should really file a case against these people. It should not be all talk without the action,” he said.

With the barangay elections just around bend, Garcia said that naming barangay officials who are in the illegal drug trade will help decide the public on who to vote.

Councilor Pastor Alcover Jr., however, opposes the plan, saying it will place the barangay officials concerned in public trial.

“I’m not in favor because for me, it has no due process. The barangay officials will already be condemned before the filing of cases against them. It’s unfair that’s why cases should be filed first,” he said.

Alcover said those who have political interest might use the plan of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency against their opponents.

“It will just create problem like what happened to former mayor Michael Rama. It really ruined him after he was named as allegedly part of those drug protectors without legal grounds,” he said. /